Although Toyota is a relative newcomer to the American truck market, the Japanese automaker has been part of the American pickup landscape for more than 50 years. During that time, Toyota has perfected its lineup, offering everything from small, light-duty trucks to full-size, go-anywhere behemoths. What sets Toyota apart is its ability to break from the stylings of American trucks, providing a breath of fresh air while maintaining its own identity.
Toyota creates vehicles that still appeal to the American working class, while offering high-end versions for those that want a top-notch cabin with the versatility of a bed. If you're searching for a new truck, joining the ranks of Toyota truck owners is a solid choice.
Toyota began its venture into the truck market in 1935 with the G1, although it was only built in limited capacities for the Japanese market. Following a period of military manufacturing during World War II, Toyota again produced pickups starting in 1947 with the SB and continuing to the RK, or Stout, through 1959. It wasn't until Toyota made the Toyota Land Cruiser Pickup that it broke into the U.S. market. While these vehicles didn't garner much attention at the time, today they are highly sought-after collectibles.
Tacoma and Tundra are the only two pickups to win awards over the years. In its first year on the market in 2000, the Tundra took home the coveted Motor Trend Truck of the Year award, and repeated the feat just eight years later. Truckin' Magazine, Edmunds, and Canadian Driver also have given top marks to the vehicle.
Since its inception, the Tacoma has also taken home some hardware, most notably when it became Motor Trend's Truck of the Year in 2005. It's also received honors from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety as a Top Safety Pick.
